Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have fallen behind to the first goal in 14 games across all competitions so far this campaign, only to go on and lose just five of them.

And, with a fine tradition of reversals and last-minute wins, including the 3-2 win against Aston Villa and 4-3 victory against Reading this term alone, Fletcher feels this can have an impact on the opposition’s mentality as the game wears on.

"The never-say-die attitude is ingrained in this club," Fletcher told reporters.

"It comes from the players, who believe in themselves, and opposition teams, who fear it. The club has such a history of it you almost expect it to happen.

"We have a great bunch of players with a great attitude. We will fight right to the very end – and the history of the club definitely plays a part.

"There is a psychological factor of going into the last 10 minutes knowing United will throw everything at them. They withdraw because they realise what is coming."

The 28-year-old, who has endured a torrid spell of the sidelines with ulcerative colitis over the past 12 months, thinks the team's ability to mix up their style of play will continue to stand them in good stead in the future.

He added: "We are very patient. It is not route one and it is always with a purpose.

“We get the ball wide and try to create chances. Long may it continue."